Vegan Thanksgiving recipes provide a plant-based twist on traditional holiday dishes, catering to those who follow a vegan lifestyle or simply wish to incorporate more vegetables and plant-derived ingredients into their festive meals.
These recipes exclude all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs, focusing instead on rich, flavorful plant-based ingredients like nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits. Vegan Thanksgiving dishes include creative versions of classics such as roasted vegetable stuffing, mushroom gravy, and dairy-free pumpkin pie.
This approach not only offers alternatives for vegans but also presents an opportunity for all guests to explore diverse, healthful, and environmentally friendly options at the Thanksgiving table.
Focus on Seasonal Ingredients: Emphasize the bounty of the season by incorporating a variety of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Root vegetables, squash, and hearty greens are in abundance during the fall and can add vibrant flavors and colors to your dishes. Seasonal ingredients not only taste better but are more affordable and sustainable.
Experiment with Texture: One of the keys to a satisfying vegan meal is the interplay of different textures. Combine creamy, crunchy, chewy, and crisp elements in your recipes to keep your guests engaged. For example, a creamy mashed root vegetable dish can be complemented with a crunchy topping of roasted seeds or nuts.
Elevate Umami Flavors: Umami, the savory taste found in many meats, can be recreated using plant-based ingredients. Incorporate mushrooms, soy sauce, miso, and nutritional yeast to add depth and richness to your dishes. These ingredients can enhance the savory profile of your recipes, making them more satisfying.
Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
#21. Pumpkin Pie Peanut Brittle Pudding Cups
#20. Cast Iron Cranberry Crisp
#19. Vegan Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
#18. Vegan Chocolate Pumpkin Pie
#17. Vegan Stuffed Potato Balls
#16. Quinoa Stuffed Squash
#15. Paleo Mashed Cauliflower Kale
#14. Vegan Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
#13. Lentil Mushroom Wild Rice Pilaf
#12. Stovetop Rainbow Carrots + Caramelized Onions
#11. Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
#10. Thanksgiving Stuffing
#9. Green Bean Casserole
#8. Rosemary Roast Potatoes
#7. Sweet Potato Seed Loaf Roast
#6. Vegan Pumpkin Mac & Cheese
#5. Vegan “Tofurkey” with Mushroom Stuffing & Gravy
#4. Harvest Veggie Loaf
#3. Quinoa Stuffed Delicata Squash Rings
#2. Pumpkin Hummus
#1. Spicy Carrot Dip
How can I make a vegan Thanksgiving main dish that feels traditional?
A great option for a traditional-feeling main dish is a lentil loaf or a stuffed squash. These dishes can be flavored with classic Thanksgiving herbs and spices such as sage, rosemary, and thyme to evoke the familiar tastes of the holiday.
What can I use as a substitute for turkey in a vegan Thanksgiving meal?
For a turkey substitute, consider making a lentil loaf, seitan roast, or a stuffed butternut squash. There are also store-bought vegan roasts available that mimic the texture and flavor of turkey.
How do I make vegan stuffing?
To make vegan stuffing, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and opt for a vegan butter or olive oil. Include traditional stuffing ingredients like celery, onions, and herbs. Ensure any bread used is vegan-friendly.
How can I make a vegan gravy?
Vegan gravy can be made by sautéing onions and garlic, then adding vegetable broth, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. Thicken with a flour or cornstarch slurry and season to taste with salt and pepper.
